Black River Canoe and Kayak race set for June 29 in Glenfield

GLENFIELD — The Black River Canoe and Kayak race will be held for its fifth year June 29.

“Competitive paddlers look at this event as a good measure of their training. There are quite a few races of varying lengths throughout the summer in Northern New York, and this is one of the longer events — and it doesn’t include any carries, so it’s a good endurance race for paddlers,” event organizer Gerald J. Haenlin said.

The race will start at the state Department of Environmental Conservation boat launch in Glenfield, County Route 40. Participants likely will be sent out in groups. The paddlers will cover 23 miles on the Black River to the boat launch in Castorland, Route 410.

“This is not a race for first-timers or inexperienced paddlers,” Mr. Haenlin said. “This race is designed for experienced racers or intermediate paddlers who have done some racing before.”

In 2013, the race saw 33 boats with 63 participants.

The cost to register is $30 per person. That fee includes an event T-shirt and post-race meal. Proceeds benefit the Lewis County Chamber of Commerce.

Registration starts at 8 a.m. The race will begin at 9 a.m.

According to a news release, “The Black River will provide a twisty, winding race course that is at times a fast-moving current with varying depths and various minor hazards.”

Hazards may include mid-river rocks and shoals, old locks, bridge abutments and downed trees embedded in the river bottom.

Paddlers are reminded to carry a personal flotation device and to be prepared for the full 23 miles. A sweep boat will follow paddlers downriver in case of an emergency. There will be a cut-off time, after which late paddlers will be shuttled to the finish line.

Following the race, paddlers will meet at Crossroads Tavern, 5551 Naumburg Lane, Castorland, for the awards ceremony.

Prizes of a “Black River Challenge” wooden plaque will be awarded in various categories. Categories will be based on boat style, number of paddlers and age groups.

For additional information or to register, call the chamber office at 376-2213.